The Nick Standlea Show

Dr. Donald D. Hoffman offers us the chance to take the red pill, stay in Wonderland, and show us how deep the rabbit hole goes.

In this conversation, best-selling author of "The Case Against Reality" and UCI professor emeritus Don Hoffman takes us on a journey through cutting-edge research that points to an interconnected consciousness beyond space and time, that could potentially be the true architect of our reality (and others). 

In a conversation that challenges the norms, Dr. Hoffman backs up his bold claims with research that spans evolutionary biology, game theory, neuroscience, philosophy, high-energy physics, and theoretical mathematics, and discusses his newest discovery -- 'positive geometries' that exist independent of space and time. 

What is consciousness? What is death? What happens when we meditate? We discuss these questions and more. Prepare to question your most fundamental beliefs about existence as Dr. Hoffman presents his theories on the illusory nature of reality (spoiler: we're living in a simulation).

Now on YouTube!

Dr. Donald Hoffman: https://youtu.be/X-gPsuyFpgo

Category: Education

Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:

Test Prep Gurus:

https://www.prepgurus.com

@TestPrepGurus

https://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/

EPISODE LINKS:

X, Donald D. Hoffman: @donalddhoffman

Bill Hicks Story: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2r85h2

INSTAGRAM: 

- Host Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea

PODCAST INFO:

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNickStandleaShow

- Podcast website: https://nickshow.podbean.com/

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ

- RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml

SUPPORT & CONNECT:

- Support on Patreon: (coming soon)

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/

- Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9

In recent years, the relevance of SAT and ACT tests in college admissions has been questioned, prompting some colleges to switch to test-optional policies. However, extensive research and data analysis now suggest that this may not have been the best approach.

New articles in the NY Times and Forbes reveal that standardized test scores are the single most powerful predictors of college grades, college graduation rates, graduate school placement, and job placement. Unlike high school grades, which have been marred by inflation, SAT and ACT scores provide a level playing field for assessing students' college readiness. Even for students from less privileged backgrounds, a good test score often signifies their capability to thrive in an academic setting.

However, the reluctance of administrators to reintroduce standardized tests isn’t so much about concern for the fairness of the tests or the lack of knowledge about their potential benefits. It seems to be more about the potential political backlash they may encounter in doing so. The surge in applications and subsequent financial benefits a university enjoys being “test-optional” also plays a part. Thus, while many colleges may maintain their test-optional status, they increasingly favor applicants with strong SAT and ACT scores.

There appears to be a growing myth that standardized tests only benefit privileged students, thereby leading to biased college admissions. This argument is challenged using data that shows the greater predictability of a student's success by standardized test scores as compared to their high school GPA. Contrary to popular belief, the SAT and ACT are seen not as hurdles but as lifelines for students from less renowned high schools – allowing them to demonstrate their potential in a widely recognized and standardized manner.

As the admissions process continues to evolve, the role of standardized tests will undoubtedly remain pivotal. Though not perfect, these tests serve as substantial evidence of a student’s readiness to handle high-level academic work and are seen as a determinant of their probability of succeeding in college – and beyond. Therefore, for students looking to increase their chances of admission into top universities and earn substantial scholarships, preparing for these standardized tests might just be the secret key.

We must recognize that while it may not completely eradicate the flaws in the admissions process, standardized testing does provide a more transparent, equal-opportunity platform for all students to demonstrate their capabilities and potential. Thus, until a more predictive tool emerges, standardized testing looks set to continue playing a significant role in college admissions.

Category: Nick Solo Episode 

Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:

Test Prep Gurus:

https://www.prepgurus.com

@TestPrepGurus

https://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/

EPISODE LINKS:

NY Times, "The Misguided War on the SAT": https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/07/briefing/the-misguided-war-on-the-sat.html

Forbes, "The SAT is Making a Comeback - Are You Prepared?": https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherrim/2024/01/08/the-sat-is-making-a-comeback-are-you-prepared/?sh=1fef9615b8ea

INSTAGRAM: 

- Host Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea

PODCAST INFO:

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ

- RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml

SUPPORT & CONNECT:

- Support on Patreon: (coming soon)

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/

- Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9

🎙️✨ Louis CK's hilarious take on flight delays hits close to home because, let's admit it, we've all been there. Complaining about minor inconveniences when we live in a world of convenience. ✈️🤣

This bit serves as a reminder of how we tend to overlook the miraculous surrounding us daily. From pocket-sized supercomputers to AI conversations, innovations that were once unthinkable are now part of our routine.

But here's the catch: familiarity breeds indifference.

We become accustomed to these conveniences, forgetting the marvel they truly are. So, what can we do?

Let's take a page from Seth Godin's story about psychological framing.

By shifting our perspective and framing trivial inconveniences as what they are—tiny speed bumps in a world of unparalleled ease—we open the door to gratitude and wonder.

This mindset shift allows us to channel our time and energy towards what truly matters, focusing on personal growth, meaningful projects, and doing the work to achieve the change in the world we want to see.

🌍💫 #PerspectiveShift #GratitudeMindset #NickStandleaPodcast #BeCurious 🎧✨ 

Category: Nick Solo Episode 

Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:

Test Prep Gurus:

https://www.prepgurus.com

@TestPrepGurus

https://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/

EPISODE LINKS:

Louis CK, Hilarious Album, Air Travel Clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3dYS7PcAG4

INSTAGRAM: 

- Host Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea

PODCAST INFO:

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ

- RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml

SUPPORT & CONNECT:

- Support on Patreon: (coming soon)

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/

- Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9

A short story about my kids that demonstrated how context is everything.

We often think we know where everyone is coming from, what their agenda is, what their history is, who they are, but in reality, we can’t ever see the whole picture.

What can we do about that? 

We can choose. 

Choose to be conscious of what that other person might be going through.

Choose to be aware of the fact that whatever the situation is, we don’t have all the information.

Choose to give people a little grace. Choose to give some to yourself too. 

If we push ourselves to pay attention, really pay attention to others, and what they might be dealing with, we’ll have options for how to deal with them. We’ll notice things about them, we’ll be slightly better versions of ourselves. We’ll at least move the needle in the direction of kindness and decency -- and that's a world I'd like my kids to grow up in. 

Category: Nick Solo Episode 

Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:

Test Prep Gurus:

https://www.prepgurus.com

@TestPrepGurus

https://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/

INSTAGRAM: 

- Host Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea

PODCAST INFO:

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ

- RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml

SUPPORT & CONNECT:

- Support on Patreon: (coming soon)

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/

- Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9

College rankings are an illusion. Despite the power they hold in popular culture, they were made up by a magazine that was going out of business. But not all colleges play the rankings game. In fact, Pitzer College won the rankings game by not playing it and telling their own story. Learn how students can do the same to reach their goals for college and beyond.  

Category: Nick Solo Episode - Learning & Higher Education

Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:

Test Prep Gurus:

https://www.prepgurus.com

@TestPrepGurus

https://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/

INSTAGRAM: 

- Host, Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea

PODCAST INFO:

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ

- RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml

SUPPORT & CONNECT:

- Support on Patreon: (coming soon)

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/

- Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9

This episode is on the future of college admissions. I’m with with Johnny Rastello, the Director of College Counseling and Dean of the 12th Grade at Tarbut V’ Torah Community Day School, a top tier independent high school in Newport Beach. An expert in college admissions, Johnny has worked in higher education for a decade and a half at public and private high schools as well as working in admissions at Chapman University. In this episode, we discuss the future of college admissions, how Artificial Intelligence is upending college essays, the ongoing college admissions arms race, and what families can do to change the narrative to provide a healthier environment for students going forward. 

Category: Learning

Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:

Test Prep Gurus:

https://www.prepgurus.com

@TestPrepGurus

https://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/

INSTAGRAM: 

- Host, Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea

-Guest, Johnny Rastello: @johnnyrastello

PODCAST INFO:

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ

- RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml

SUPPORT & CONNECT:

- Support on Patreon: (coming soon)

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/

- Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9

Two priests are driving down the highway...  This is the beginning of a joke I told at my grandfather's funeral. It was a risk, a deviation from the expected script of somberness. What followed was a lesson in the unexpected rewards that come from taking little risks when we step outside our comfort zones. 

Category: Nick Solo Episode 

Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:

Test Prep Gurus:

https://www.prepgurus.com

@TestPrepGurus

https://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/

EPISODE LINKS:

- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield: https://a.co/d/7s8bQqU

INSTAGRAM: 

- Host Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea

PODCAST INFO:

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ

- RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml

SUPPORT & CONNECT:

- Support on Patreon: (coming soon)

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/

- Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9

Today I’m speaking with world champion jujitsu competitor Leo Vieira. He’s known as the Yoda of Jujitsu because of his ability to take lessons from a lifetime of overcoming challenges on the mat and to impart that knowledge to others how to live a better, fuller life. He did not disappoint, dropping one nugget of wisdom after another. He talks about growing up poor in the rough part of Rio Dejanero, leveraging competition to change his life, he shares insights into his epic battle with MMA beast Mark Kerr, he got me to open up about the first punch I ever took in the face and my walk of shame afterward, and shares lessons from life that we can all learn from.

Leo Vieira is one of the most successful Jiu-Jitsu competitors of his generation. He’s a two-time ADCC world champion and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Championships gold medal winner. After retiring as a competitor, he created Checkmat, a Jiu-jitsu team that has trained numerous world champions and inspired thousands of jiu-jitsu students across the world. Checkmat's presence stretches across the globe, from the Rio de Janeiro favelas, to more than 500 dojos on 6 continents, including, Germany, Australia, Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, Morocco, Israel, China, Serbia, Qatar, among many other countries, along with more than 100 locations in the USA.

Leo is also the ONE FC Championship Vice President of Grappling, one of the biggest promoters worldwide of martial arts events.

Despite all that Leo does, he still finds time to pop into his various dojos in the southern California area to teach students and impart lessons from a lifetime of experience in jiu-jitsu. I can attest to this personally when I spent a few minutes grappling with him at Dojo by Leo Viera in Seal Beach, during which time he man-handled me like a child, all the while keeping a smile on his face.

Category: Health / Learning

Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor:

Test Prep Gurus:

https://www.prepgurus.com

@TestPrepGurus

https://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/

EPISODE LINKS:

- ONE Championship: https://www.onefc.com/

- DOJO by Leo Vieira, Jiu Jitsu & Martial Arts Seal Beach: https://www.dojosealbeach.com/

- Checkmat Headquarters Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: https://checkmatbjj.com/

INSTAGRAM: 

- ONE Championship: @onechampionship

- Checkmat: @checkmathq

- Leo Vieira: @leovieirabjj

- Host Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea

PODCAST INFO:

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ

- RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml

SUPPORT & CONNECT:

- Support on Patreon: (coming soon)

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/

- Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9

Dr. Paul Rohdenburg answers questions on the fat loss drug Ozempic (semaglutide, Ozempic, and Wegovy) and then dives deep into what people in their 40's, 50's and 60's need to do now regarding their fitness and nutrition to maximize their healthspan into their 70's, 80's, 90's, and beyond. We discuss a holistic approach to well-being, the benefits of cold-plunging & sauna, protein & creatine supplements, the importance of muscle mass in mid-life, sleep monitoring, glucose monitors, how to gain muscle (hypertrophy) vs strength how to diet properly and maintain weight loss, the weaponization of processed foods in America, and how psychology affects physiology. Learn more about how to live a healthier and more vibrant life.

Category: Health

Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors:

- Test Prep Gurus: https://www.prepgurus.com/

- Jen Rohdenburg Group Seal Beach Real Estate: https://jenrohdenburg.com/

EPISODE LINKS:

Oura Ring: https://ouraring.com

Levels (Continuous Glucose Monitoring): https://www.levelshealth.com/

Sauna for under $300 on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3QMpVvJ

Cold Plunge Under $100: https://amzn.to/3Steo5G

Cold Plunge with Chiller: https://amzn.to/470vtIN

PODCAST INFO:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ

RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml

SUPPORT & CONNECT:

- Support on Patreon: (coming soon)

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/

- Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9

TEST PREP GURUS:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/testprepgurus/

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TestPrepGurusNewportBeach

Nick is a curious guy. He likes to talk to interesting people. If you’re not curious, this show isn’t for you. 

But if you like to ask questions, dive beneath the surface, and learn about fascinating individuals, you’ve found your home. Join Nick Standlea for long-form conversations with authors, entrepreneurs, writers, creators, athletes, doctors, scientists, historians, activists, entertainers, and other brilliant guest experts. 

You can follow Nick and the show on Instagram: @NickStandlea

A little bit about Nick: He earned a perfect score on the SAT, but thinks standardized tests are overrated. He won grants to teach kids to surf in China, to explore caves in Tibet, to study business at the University of Oxford, and to dabble in Art History in Italy. Nick is a former Research Associate at the Quality of Life Research Center where he got paid to think about creativity, flow, and self-improvement, and to work for his hero and mentor, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (author of Flow). He founded numerous companies, including Test Prep Gurus, a test prep and education consulting firm based in Newport Beach, California that works with students across the United States, and more than a dozen other countries. Nick is a writer, speaker, entrepreneur, consultant, and podcaster.

Ask questions.

Don’t accept the status quo.

Be curious.

Instagram: @NickStandlea

Website: The Nick Standlea Show